Over 35k chemist shops across Gujarat to remain shut in massive protest

Ahmedabad | Gujarat — A nationwide shutdown of medical stores has brought the pharmaceutical retail sector to a standstill as chemists protest the growing threat of online drug sales, fake medicines and illegal e-pharmacies. The symbolic one-day bandh on Wednesday, has been called by the All India Organization of Chemists and Druggists, drawing participation from an estimated 12.5 lakh pharmacies across 38 states.

In Surat, around 7,200 medical stores remained closed, while nearly 35,000 chemist shops across Gujarat joined the protest, highlighting the scale of concern within the industry.

Chemists warn of fake drugs and youth addiction

Leaders of the Surat Chemists and Druggists Association said the strike reflects growing anger among traditional pharmacy owners over deep discounting by online platforms and the alleged unchecked sale of addictive medicines.

“The easy availability of intoxicating drugs online is pushing youth toward addiction. This is not just a business issue — it is a public health emergency,” said association president Mansukhbhai R. Raiyani during a press conference.

Industry representatives claim that illegal online pharmacies are bypassing prescription rules and flooding the market with counterfeit medicines, putting patients’ lives at risk.

Emergency arrangements to avoid inconvenience

To ensure patients do not face hardship, medical stores operating within multi-specialty hospitals, private hospitals and trust-run healthcare institutions have remained open. Additionally, a limited number of pharmacies have been permitted to operate in different areas.

Lists of open hospitals and pharmacies were displayed outside closed shops to guide patients needing urgent medicines.

“We have taken special care so that the public does not suffer. Our fight is to protect the nation’s health and the future of its youth,” said chemist leaders.

Key demands from chemist organisations

The protesting organisations have placed several demands before the government, including a ban on illegal e-pharmacies, stricter action against counterfeit medicines and regulation of heavy online discounts.

Chemists insist urgent intervention is required to safeguard public health and ensure fair competition in the pharmaceutical sector.